Ashor Sarupen ready to succeed Helen Zille as DA federal council chair

As the Democratic Alliance's (DA) internal leadership contest heats up, Deputy Finance Minister Ashor Sarupen says he's more than ready to succeed his close ally, Helen Zille.

Sarupen is contesting the position of federal council chairperson, a role Zille has occupied for the past six years. 

With Zille stepping down, Sarupen believes he's the right person to take over.

He is set to face off against the party’s National Assembly house chairperson, Werner Horn, as well as Neo Mokoena.

Sarupen is eyeing a full-time role within the DA, one that is effectively responsible for overseeing the party’s operations. 

Although he is up against two other candidates, analysts believe he is likely to enjoy the strongest support, given his close ties to Zille.

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Sarupen acknowledged that the position came with significant pressure, especially in an election year, but said he was more than ready for the challenge.

"I have known Helen all of my political career, and these are very big shoes to fill. Do I feel pressure? No. It’s daunting, but I’ve worked as her deputy for six years," Sarupen said.

"I’ve probably had the longest apprenticeship under Helen as anyone in DA history. So I think that means I’ve learnt everything I can to prepare me for this".

Sarupen said he’s open to continuing his ministerial duties if he’s elected the DA’s federal council chairperson.

He said while both the federal council chairperson role and his position as deputy minister are full-time jobs, he’ll take guidance from the DA’s next leader on whether he should juggle both responsibilities.

“I am open to staying on. I need to have that discussion with Geordin Hill-Lewis, and it’s ultimately his prerogative as the leader. I am open to staying on. I think I have been fairly successful for the DA and for the country as the deputy minister.”

However, no one in the DA has ever simultaneously held a government position while serving as the party’s full-time federal council chairperson.

The DA's national congress is scheduled to take place in Midrand this coming weekend.